Noem recognizes tribal groups during State-Tribal Relations Day

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PIERRE – Gov. Kristi Noem this week attended the State-Tribal Relations Awards Ceremony where she presented certificates of commendation to two tribal groups who have done “extraordinary work” to combat the flow of drugs in their communities.

Certificates of commendation were awarded to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Tokala Inajinyo Youth Group for their presentation at the Tribal Meth Summit on the impact meth has had on their community; and to the Sisseton-Wahpeton United Veterans Association for their advocacy and foot and mobile patrols that have resulted in reduced meth use on the reservation.

“I’m so grateful that these groups are taking action to protect their communities,” Noem said. “Taking action isn’t always easy, but it is necessary. I’m very proud of the work they’re doing.”

“These commendable actions display our peoples’ bravery, loyalty, duty, and service,” said David Flute, secretary of the Department of Tribal Relations. “They should be very proud of what they’ve accomplished, and I hope their work inspires other groups to step up in their communities.”

“I am thankful that Governor Noem and Secretary Flute honored the efforts of these groups to combat methamphetamine use in our homelands,” said State Sen. Troy Heinert, Senate minority leader. “They are on the frontlines against this epidemic and need our support and recognition.”

Following the awards ceremony, tribal members presented Noem with a ribbon skirt and pin to recognize her work on the issue of missing and murdered indigenous women.